Hot blues and shady trees will be the theme again this year during the annual Blues Under the Trees Festival on Saturday.

“This blues festival is very laid back,” Nate Gibson, president of the Lizard Creek Blues Society, said. “All you have to do is bring a lawn chair and hang out for the day, while enjoying delicious food and great, relaxing music.”

The show will be at Frontier Sports Park south of Fort Dodge. The gates will open at noon; the music begins at 1 p.m.

Admission for the festival is $25 in advance and $30 at the gate. Tickets can be purchased at Access Audio, Availa Bank, Hy-Vee (Fort Dodge and Humboldt), Olde Boston’s Restaurant and Pub, and Rieman Music. Kids 12 and under are admitted free. Be sure to bring a lawn chair or blanket because no seating will be provided.

Lizard Creek Blues Society is “keeping the blues alive so you don’t have to drive,” Gibson said.

Opening the show again this year are Joe and Vicki Price, from Decorah.

The married duo has been performing together for 34 years and have received a number of awards. Their “Rain or Shine” album won Independent Music Award for best blues CD of 2009. Their most recent album, “Night Owls,” has been described as their most memorable and fun album to date.

Also returning to the festival is Hal Reed and the Mississippi Journey.

Reed became infatuated with blues music while listening to his father, grandmother, uncle, and other blues musicians. Hal Reed and the Mississippi Journey are passionate about the blues and strive to keep the blues alive by sharing their vast knowledge of America’s musical roots.

Reed’s band consists of some of the best Quad City based musicians: Christ Avey (guitar), Roger Alexander (bass), and Frank Alexander (drums).

“Hal Reed and the Mississippi Journey will deliver an entertaining show that will not disappoint,” Gibson said.

Kilborn Alley Blues will also be taking the stage during the festival.

Their music has been described by critics as gritty Chicago blues and southern fried soul for all the generations of blues lovers.

The band features: Andrew Duncanson, vocals and guitar; Josh Stimmel, guitar; Chris Breen, electric bass and guitar; Ed O’Hara, drums and vocals. Also joining them on stage at Blues Under the Trees will be Ronnie Shellist on the harmonica.

Next to take the stage is someone coming off a tour opening for Buddy Guy. Ken Valdez will be making his debut at the Blues Under the Trees festival.

The Santa Fe, New Mexico, born and bred guitarist/singer/songwriter/producer has been turning heads for a decade and a half with versatility, raw talent, and true grit, critics say.

Valdez has worked with famous artists such as Al Green, Keith Urban, Little River Band, Steve Miller Band, Cheap Trick, and many more.

“Ken Valdez is a brilliant guitar player that will bring the audience to their feet,” Gibson said.

Laith Al-Saadi, runner up on NBC’s “The Voice” in 2016, will be headlining this year’s festival and is expected to bring his authentic blend of blues, soul, and classic rock to those attending the festival.

He began displaying his musical talents at a young age, learning to sing in a boys choir when he was 4, and taking up guitar at 13.

He studied music at the University of Michigan, and received a degree in jazz guitar and bass. Al-Saadi brings his authentic blend of blues, soul, and classic rock to audiences around the nation and around the world.

“Laith is an incredible guitar player, with a very soothing voice,” Gibson said, “I have been trying to book him for the festival for years.”

His recently released album, “REAL” was at the top of the blues chart for five weeks and top 20 album for two weeks.

“He doesn’t tour that much and I am honored he will be performing at Blues Under the Trees this year,” Gibson said.

Vendors at the festival include Jesse James Cajun Catering, Soldier Creek Winery, Legendary Rye, Shiny Top Brewery, and more.